Capital High School Season Preview

The Capital High School cross country team has high goals for this upcoming season, with their sights set on qualifying for the State Meet and finishing in the top of the standings. To achieve these goals, Coach John Doherty is relying on a strong group of returning players, new players who are expected to make an immediate impact, and a focus on team chemistry and mental toughness. One of the top returning players for the girls' team is Lily Sullivan, who finished 9th at the State Meet last year. She is joined by Sage Powell, who had a 23rd-place finish. Both athletes are expected to continue their success and lead the team to victory. These two runners have proven themselves as top competitors and their determination and hard work set them apart. In addition to the returning players, Coach Doherty is also excited about the impact of new players on the team. Lily Sullivan, in particular, is expected to make a major contribution after her impressive performance last season. Her experience and strong work ethic will be valuable assets to the team. Sage Powell is another new player who is expected to make a big impact. With his previous success and natural athletic abilities, he brings a lot of potential to the team. To ensure that the team works well together, Coach Doherty is focused on building team chemistry and camaraderie. Unlike other teams that may have designated captains, the group at Capital High School allows for natural leaders to emerge. By providing this flexibility, the coach can create a bond among team members that will lead to success both on and off the field. When it comes to motivating his players, Coach Doherty understands the importance of mental toughness. He starts off the season with a cross-country camp at Warm Lake, where the team can bond and build a strong foundation for their teamwork. Furthermore, the team has a number of traditions throughout the season that allow for more time for team bonding. By creating a supportive and positive team environment, Coach Doherty can motivate his players to push themselves to their full potential. Despite their determination and focus, the team has faced some challenges in preparing for this season. The main obstacle is the unpredictable and inconsistent weather conditions, specifically smoke and bad air quality. However, the team has remained resilient and has managed to keep its goals in mind despite the challenges they have faced.